Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators
Laminate layers of fiberglass on molds to form boat decks and hulls, bodies for golf carts, automobiles, or other products.
SOC: 51-2051.00
Common Job Titles
Boat BuilderChopper Gun OperatorFiberglass LaminatorLaminator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform fiberglass lamination processes on molds using chopper guns, rollers, and spray equipment to fabricate boat hulls, vehicle bodies, and composite products.Developing
- Hands-onOperate fiber reinforced polymer application equipment and curing ovens following production schedules and safety protocols in manufacturing settings.Developing
- KnowledgeIllustrate fiberglass layup techniques and resin application methods when training new fabricators on composite manufacturing processes.Developing
- Hands-onExecute inspection and quality control procedures using micrometers and visual assessment to verify composite product specifications and structural integrity.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain chemical properties of resins and catalysts to ensure proper mixing ratios and curing times for fiberglass applications.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate hand tools and power equipment for trimming, sanding, and finishing fiberglass parts to specified tolerances.Developing
- KnowledgeCompare finished composite products against quality standards and design specifications to identify defects, voids, or delamination requiring rework.Developing
- KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge when coordinating work sequences with team members to optimize fabrication workflow.Developing
- MindsetEngage in safety practices and personal protective equipment usage when working with volatile resins and fiberglass materials in manufacturing environments.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate troubleshooting procedures for lamination defects by identifying root causes such as improper resin mix, insufficient catalyst, or contamination.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
18,520
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,950 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $61,370 |
| Workers on average earn | $47,320 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Administration and Management3.9/5
- Production and Processing3.8/5
- Education and Training3.6/5
- Chemistry3.3/5
- English Language3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
Enterprise resource planning ERP softwareSpreadsheet softwareWord processing software
Tools & Equipment
Chopper gunsCuring ovensCutoff sawsFiber reinforced polymer FRP rollersHand shearsHeat lampsHigh-volume low-pressure HVLP spray gunsLadders